Condition
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in Americans ages 65 and older. The condition occurs when the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for the sharp, central vision needed to read or drive, deteriorates. Because the macula primarily is affected in AMD, central vision loss may occur. There are two forms of AMD: wet and dry. Patients with wet AMD develop new blood vessels under the retina. This causes hemorrhages, swelling, and scar tissue. Dry AMD is much more common and is characterized by drusen (small, yellowish deposits) and loss of pigment in the retina.
Risk factors include:
- Heredity
- smoking
- blue eyes
- high blood pressure
- cardiovascular disease
Prevalence
1.75 million U.S. residents have advanced age-related macular degeneration. The number of cases is expected to rise to almost 3 million by 2020.
Symptoms
Macular degeneration usually produces a slow, or rarely, sudden painless loss of vision. Early signs of vision loss from AMD include shadowy areas in your central vision or unusually fuzzy or distorted vision. Retinal exams can detect early signs of macular degeneration before symptoms occur. When macular degeneration is suspected, a brief test to measure your central vision may be performed.
Treatment
Dry AMD cannot currently be treated, which does not mean you will lose your sight. Fortunately, dry AMD develops very slowly. Although you may lose some of your central vision over the years, most people are able to have normal, active lives, especially if AMD affects only one eye. Currently, Retina Institute of Hawaii is excepting enrollment for a clinical trial, which seeks a new care option for wet AMD. NeoVista’s Novel Wet AMD Therapy includes a one-time treatment of a targeted dose of beta radiation to leaking blood vessels and two injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor. Other treatment options for wet AMD are also available.
Help us promote good habits during Healthy Vision Month with these 5 tips!
⓵ Schedule regular eye exams 📆
② Enjoy a healthy diet 🥗
⓷ Wear protective eyewear - especially those sunglasses 🕶️
④ Know your eye disease risk factors ⚠
⑤ Stay hydrated 💦
#WA'a #eyecenterofhawaii #lovelife #guidingpatientcareforward #healthyvisionmonth #eyehealth ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
As Bennett Eye Institute has been transformed into Eye Center of Hawai’i it's essential to acknowledge our history. In 1998, Dr. Michael Bennett laid the foundation for our journey, leading us to become the largest retinal practice in Hawai’I and one of the nation's leaders in research. However, as the landscape evolved, we recognized the need to differentiate ourselves, leading to our transition to Bennett Eye Institute. Now, as Eye Center of Hawai’i, we come full circle, reflecting our dedication to delivering exceptional care with expanded services.
In our new identity, we have embraced Wa’a “Canoe”. The canoe holds a profound significance in Hawaiian culture. We honor the spirit of the canoe, symbolically representing our commitment to guiding and supporting our patients on their journey to optimal eye health and vision.
This change signifies our renewed commitment to growth, expanded patient services, and unwavering dedication to both our physicians and staff. Over the years, we've seen remarkable growth and evolution within our practice, and this rebranding represents our vision for the future.
#Wa'a #GuidingPatientCareForward #EyeCenterofHawaii #LoveLife ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
... See MoreSee Less
www.facebook.com
Exceptional vision, designed for your lifestyle. Bennett Eye Institute, which is now Eye Center of Hawai'i, specializes in advanced eye care treatments including laser cataract surgery, advanced IOLs,...0 CommentsComment on Facebook
... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Regular eye check-ups are more than just vision care; they're a commitment to your overall health. Let's keep our sights set on a brighter, clearer future together. 👁️🗨️✨ #eyehealth #visioncare #seethefuture #bennetteyeinstitute #lovelife ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Seeing our planet thrive starts with the small steps we take towards sustainability. 🌍 This Earth Day, let’s focus on a clearer future for both our vision and our environment. Let’s make sustainability a vision we share! 👀🌱 #EarthDay #VisionForTheFuture #SustainableSight #BennettEyeInstitute #LoveLife ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook